Virtual XI

2014年のアナログ・リイシュー・シリーズに続く、IRON MAIDEN(アイアン・メイデン)アルバム・アナログ・リイシュー・プロジェクト第四弾登場!彼らが世界を代表するメタル・バンドへと成長を遂げる中新たなるMAIDEN像を模索する中期4作が、180グラムの重量盤アナログLPで復刻!

Iron Maiden's eleventh record, aptly titled VIRTUAL XI, is a wonderful addition to the band's legacy. Refusing to sell out and go "alternative" or "electronic," the group sticks to what it knows; heavy metal epics focusing on world peace, paranoia and technology. This is the second release with vocalist Blaze Bayley who adds his own powerful element to the Maiden mix. His voice is deeper and more brooding than his predecessor Bruce Dickinson, but just as effective. The technical virtuosity and the unfettered production (by bassist Steve Harris and Nigel Green) of classic Maiden are still solidly in place. Some keyboards are used for ambience, but this is mostly speed and power ala vintage Maiden. The songs are on the long side, with "The Angel And The Gambler" clocking in at over 9 minutes. All in all, fans of the band, or of heavy rock in general, will be satisfied, as all the traditional ingredients that make this a great band are evident in VIRTUAL XI.